Utah apprenticeship program helps people get into teaching without a degree

SALT LAKE CITY — At least two public school districts have joined a new program from the Utah State Board of Education that will help people become teachers without a bachelor’s degree.

The program is intended to ease the teacher shortage that Utah has previously faced. 

 

The Utah Registered Apprenticeship Program, U-RAPT, was authorized with the passage of Board Rule R277-333. 

In a news release, the Utah State Board of Education said the University of Utah, Weber State University and Salt Lake Community College will be the “initial related instruction providers.”

The Ogden School District is among four local entities that have established employment partnerships with state educators. 

The program has two phases. The first is the pre-apprenticeship phase for people considering a career in education who have no post-secondary education.

Apprenticeship Educational Specialist Christina Guevara said the new program allows aspiring teachers to get in-class experience while getting a check.

“Whether that’s someone who’s directly coming out of high school and really interested in the teaching profession and wanting to try it out in a full classroom before they take on the full role,” she said.

The apprenticeship phase helps others complete their degrees and prepare for employment in the teaching field.

“This program’s launch marks a significant advancement in teacher preparation pathways within the state,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Sydnee Dickson. “We hope that U-RAPT helps aspiring teachers overcome barriers that had previously prevented them from pursuing this career.”

Eric Cabrera contributed to this story.

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